PSV Driving Tests

HC Deb 13 July 1988 vol 137 cc200-1W

Mr. Fry

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will list the current period of delay between date of application and dates offered for a test by those currently applying for PSV driving tests in each traffic area, and the national average.

Mr. Peter Bottomley

This information is not readily available. The period includes assessment of a candidate's suitability to hold a PSV licence. The time taken to complete checks on health and character can vary considerably.

The Department aims to provide a test within four weeks of a positive decision on suitability. Waiting periods for HGV and PSV driving tests are overall still rather longer than we would wish. Steps are being taken to reduce them.

If my hon. Friend has knowledge of any specific problem perhaps he would let me have details.